27 Jul Lil’wat Director Sandy Ward’s Film wins Dirt Diaries 2024

Congratulations to Kelkeláokik Sandy Ward for Winning Crankworx Dirt Diaries 2024!

Congratulations to Lil’wat Director Kelkeláokik Sandy Ward for her exceptional film that took the top prize at Crankworx Dirt Diaries 2024! Sandy’s latest film, which proudly showcases the vibrant storytelling of Lil’wat youth mountain biking and their deep connection to the land, truly captured the spirit of our community.

Sandy, an Indigenous creative from the Líl’wat Nation, has always been a passionate advocate for amplifying local Indigenous talent through her films, and her incredible work teaching Indigenous youth mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing for her Nation, and through Indigenous Women Outdoors. Though she initially aimed to break into the sports industry as an athlete, she pivoted to film school with a dream of creating snowboard films. After a notable career as an athlete, Sandy found her way back to filmmaking, channeling her experiences into projects that honor both the land and the people who call it home.

Her award-winning film, Slides on the Mountain, is a testament to her dedication and creativity. Now, with her recent Crankworx Dirt Diaries win, Sandy continues to push boundaries and elevate local voices, bringing Lil’wat stories to a global audience.

Kúkwstumckálap (Thank you) to Sandy and her incredible team for their hard work and dedication. Your film not only celebrates the youth of Lil’wat but also connects deeply with the lands we cherish and explore.

Crankworx and Whistler Blackcomb showcased the remarkable intersection of creativity and mountain biking, featuring six standout filmmakers who each delivered their unique vision. We raise our hands to the judges for recognizing Sandy and her team for sharing authentic Indigenous voices, storytelling, filmmaking, music and talent, authentic to the area where the event is held in Whistler. The event held on the evening of Wednesday, July 24th, 2024, at Whistler Olympic Plaza was a memorable celebration of the culture and innovation within the biking community.

Here’s to many more stories from the heart of our land and its people.

Watch the film: